Student Visas?

Hi is there anyone out there that has recently applied for a student visa that can pass along any helpful tips? I only have six weeks, is that enough time to get it all done? Will I need an itinerary?...

Student Visas?

Canadian Expatriate and Travellers Forum Index -> Canadians in the UK -> UK Visas and Immigration

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studyuk
New Member

Joined: 28 Jul 2008
Posts: 3

Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2008 8:35 pm

Hi is there anyone out there that has recently applied for a student visa that can pass along any helpful tips? I only have six weeks, is that enough time to get it all done? Will I need an itinerary? I am in the process of finalizing my flights, is it worth it to wait? Please help!
Thanks!

mangojuice
New Member

Joined: 13 Jul 2008
Posts: 4
Location: Montreal

Posted: Wed Jul 30, 2008 5:40 pm

6 weeks should more than enough if you supply all the required documentation but the sooner the better.

I would wait for the visa before buying the tickets. There's no need for a flight itinerary to apply for the visa (I got mine and I still haven't booked a flight yet). I actually think they recommend not to buy the tickets until the visa is issued.

So if your application is complete and with all the necessary documents (offer letter from uni, proof of funds, etc) it should take less than 1 week.
Also check with your university if your course needs an ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) certificate (which is required for most science and engineering postgrad research degrees, for non EU/EEA citizens). You can usually find this info on the university website.

studyuk
New Member

Joined: 28 Jul 2008
Posts: 3

Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2008 4:39 pm

thanks for the advice mangojuice! I will look into this certificate, does the university typically just send you a copy of it?

mangojuice
New Member

Joined: 13 Jul 2008
Posts: 4
Location: Montreal

Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2008 5:29 pm

Hello StudyUK,

If your course requires an ATAS certificate, you have to apply for it through the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

First of all, have a look at their website to determine whether you need it or not. You can also double check with the website of your university.
If you do need the certificate, then you have to apply for it first and then submit it with your visa application.

Are you going to be a postgrad or undergrad student?

Good luck with your studies!

studyuk
New Member

Joined: 28 Jul 2008
Posts: 3